Polymer membranes add force-sensing touch to devices

Article By : Graham Prophet

The QTC force sensors can be configured to sense X-Y position through touch and applied force in the Z-axis.

Sensors used under a display can sense the force applied across the entire screen and compute the touch pressure for individual zones or functions.

UK-based Peratech wants to add a touch of force-sensing technology to give smartphone and tablet users a more intuitive experience, while at the same time, provide more creative opportunities for product and app developers by adding new ways for consumers to interact with their devices.

Peratech says it is working with several smartphone manufacturers to add QTC force sensors to multiple surfaces on their products. The sensors, which are supplied in the form of a polymer membrane as thin as 50µm, can be applied under displays, along the edges and on the backs of handheld consumer electronic devices. They can be configured to sense X-Y position through touch and applied force in the Z-axis. There are single-touch and multi-touch versions.

Sensors used under a display can sense the force applied across the entire screen and compute the touch pressure for individual zones or functions. Alternatively, they can provide discrete pressure buttons in regions that match the graphical user interface layout. Home buttons can be made multi-functional, while wear-prone dome switches can be replaced with a force-sensing button where a light touch of the finger gives a quick wake up to check the time or messages and a firmer press reads the fingerprint and unlocks the phone.

QTC sensors work under most surfaces. When applied to the sides and/or back of a smartphone, they sense the user’s grip and the amount of pressure applied, which can be used to control basic functions or apps. In addition, the back of a smartphone or tablet can be configured as a single- or multi-zone touch pad, opening up many more options for gaming input and interaction. On the device edges, QTC sensors may be used as switches and volume or brightness controls. Here, cutting holes in the case is eliminated and it’s easier to make products more robust and waterproof.

"Adding a third dimension–force–to the user interface of a smartphone or tablet, and being able to do that anywhere on the surface of the device, offers designers infinitely greater opportunity to differentiate their products. They can become more creative with the interactions they provide, as can app developers, while at the same time making devices more intuitive and responsive," said Peratech CEO Jon Stark.